Winter is my favorite season. I choose being all snuggled up in the cold to being all sweaty in the heat. I am truly happiest with two feet of snow in twenty degree weather.
The challenge of survival brings out my pioneer spirit- like walking two blocks to the store after a snowstorm, pulling my sled behind me. Loading up on supplies for me and my neighbors because I am the only one crazy enough to do it.
But this season winter never happened. My preschoolers have been outside every day except when it rained. I watched them run around the playground today and I thought about classes I've had in the past and the joy they experienced going outside for the first time in six weeks. This class misses out on that euphoria.
There is so much I missed about this winter. Sledding on the snow. Freezing temperatures that allow for ice skating on the local ponds. And wearing my sweaters.
There you are- hanging in my closet.
My navy blue cardigan with the deep pockets all stretched out of shape.
You hang below my thighs and disguise my body. I feel so good in you.
And my magenta. You also hang low, hiding the bumps in my body that nobody considers sexy.
You go so well with my tan slacks. I haven't seen them in awhile also.
And the other blue pull overs. I loved you so much I bought three. Old Navy-you did good.
But this year I only remember one of you and when I did wear you I lamented the fact that I only ironed the collar of my shirt. I overheated in you. Not nice at all.
And now Spring is soon to arrive. No need to unpack the tees that temporarily fill the void of packing up my sweaters. I've been wearing them all the time.
Flowers in January. Yellow and pink in February. Now green for March.
My flannels- oh don't make me go there. Even the chilliest of nights kept you away from me as comforters did their job.
Ah spring. The only joy that gets me through the next six months is my garden. And I strolled through you today-looking for the crocus and daffodil sprouts. You miss the snow that fed you through the winter, didn't you.
And now, as a friend told me, "How can we decide when to plant when the last frost was back in October."
Ah Wisconsin. I envy you more than for your activism. I envy you your weather.